Ovni 445 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Ovni 445 emerged from a rich lineage of aluminum yachts, building upon Alubat's reputation for crafting exceptionally strong and durable vessels. Production of the 445 began in 2008, continuing a tradition that would eventually see it replaced by the Ovni 450. The design, penned by Marc Lombard, aimed to evolve Alubat's successful 14-meter class by refining its waterline length and beam, resulting in a well-sailing 44-footer.

Alubat, since its founding in 1973, has been unwavering in its commitment to aluminum construction and lifting keel designs, a combination that defines the Ovni range. This choice of material, specifically Aluminium 5083 H111 and 6060 T6 profiles, ensures exceptional strength, safety, and the ability to customize. The Ovni 445, like its predecessors, features a distinctive multi-chine hull form that contributes to its stability and interior volume, aligning with Alubat's ethos of building robust, aesthetically pleasing boats suitable for demanding blue-water cruising. The lifting keel allows for unparalleled access to shallow waters, and the twin rudders provide excellent control and redundancy, key attributes for adventurous sailors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alubat Ovni 445, with its design by Marc Lombard, delivers a sailing experience characterized by good performance and stability, making it capable of navigating efficiently across diverse wind conditions. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.9 suggests a design capable of respectable light-air performance, while still maintaining control in stronger breezes.

With a Ballast to Displacement (Bal/D) ratio of around 0.32, the Ovni 445, while not exceptionally stiff compared to some dedicated offshore racers (a ratio over 0.40 typically indicates greater stiffness), is described as being "stiff under sail". This indicates a well-balanced design where the boat stands up to its canvas effectively. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 158.8 positions the Ovni 445 in the lighter displacement category for its length, implying a more performance-oriented vessel rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser. This combination of features, including its beamy hull and efficient, deep centerboard (when deployed), allows the 445 to provide a "lively yet reasonably comfortable experience" for its crew. The fractional rig simplifies tacking, an advantage for both cruisers and racers. The twin rudders further enhance maneuverability and control, particularly when the lifting keel is raised for shallow water access.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ovni 445 is designed to offer maximum comfort and adaptability, reflecting Alubat's commitment to customization. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.63 feet, the interior feels spacious and inviting. The shipyard typically offered at least two main interior layouts, allowing owners to tailor the configuration to their specific cruising needs.

Common interior arrangements include two or three cabins, often featuring an aft cabin on the port side and a convertible aft locker. A dedicated technical room is a practical feature, along with ample sail locker storage, essential for long voyages. The finish quality is generally characterized by durable materials, with varnished vertical grain oak as a standard, with horizontal grain as an option, providing a classic yet robust aesthetic. The ability to extensively customize internal layouts and designs is a hallmark of Alubat, allowing owners to personalize everything from galley configuration to sleeping arrangements, ensuring the boat is truly adapted to their envisioned voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alubat Ovni 445 generally praise its solid construction and its capability as a robust blue-water cruiser, reflecting the core values of the Alubat brand. The active "Ovni Club" further underscores the loyalty and satisfaction among owners, who often share knowledge and experiences.

While overall positive, some common points of discussion among owners include the routine maintenance associated with complex systems. Some anecdotal reports mention potential issues with rudder maintenance. Furthermore, an isolated forum discussion alluded to a "445 hull problem" concerning re-bonding, suggesting that some internal structures or hull-deck joints may require attention over time. It's also worth noting general maintenance items like Volvo Penta engine issues (loose bolts, leaks, MDI units) are sometimes mentioned in broader discussions, though not specifically tied exclusively to the Ovni 445. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the enduring appeal of the Ovni 445 lies in its formidable capabilities, comfort, and the peace of mind offered by its all-aluminum, lifting-keel design, making it a highly regarded choice for adventurous sailors.